Training Intensity for Older Males

Should the intensity of exercise decrease as we age? A recent study has challenged the notion that high-intensity training should be reserved for the young. In the past, experts believed that older individuals might not benefit from high-intensity training, and that it could increase the chance of injury. The 16-week study divided 18 men between the ages of 50 and 75 into two groups: a control group and a high-intensity resistance-training group. The high-intensity training consisted of a number of exercises performed twice a week. The results were promising. While no changes were found in the control group, the high-intensity training group was able to tolerate the challenging workouts while remaining injury free. The older men also reported cardiovascular and muscular improvements similar to those seen in young men.